Cambodia’s Health Ministry reported on March 15 that a 45-year-old woman in Ropok village, Chhnuor Mean Chey commune, Preah Net Preah district, Banteay Meanchey province, had contracted avian influenza. The National Institute of Public Health confirmed her infection with H5N1 on March 14, following reports of sick and dead chickens and ducks in the village.
The patient has been isolated in hospital and is receiving Tamiflu and care from medical staff. The ministry said an interview established that she raised chickens and Muscovy ducks, and that some of her chickens had become sick or died. She had handled a dead chicken three days before testing positive.
National and subnational Health Ministry rapid-response teams are actively working with the provincial Agriculture Department’s team and local authorities, using technical methods and protocols, to investigate animal and human sources of infection, identify suspected cases and trace contacts to prevent further community infections. They have also distributed Tamiflu to close contacts and conducted health education in the village.
The ministry again reminded the public to remain alert to avian influenza, as H5N1 continues to threaten public health. Anyone developing fever, cough, a runny nose or breathing difficulties after contact with sick or dead chickens or ducks within the 14 days before symptoms began should promptly visit the nearest health centre or hospital, avoid delaying care, and avoid gatherings or crowded places.
Written by Nget Pisant.
